Pep Guardiola has begun planning for life without his ageing stars.
The Catalan is targeting Brazilian midfielder Fred after the 24 years old impressed him in their Champions League group stage encounter.
The Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder is touted as the ideal replacement for Fernandinho.
Fernandinho is close to agreeing an extension to his current Manchester City deal, but he would be turning 33 in May and Guardiola knows his next contract extension may be his last with the Cityzens.
Yaya Toure is also expected to leave the Etihad next summer, after his current deal expires and that would leave City short of midfield options.
Guardiola is looking to dominate the English game for a decade and knows he can’t achieve that without adequate cover for his first team starters.
According to Daily Mail, he has discussed his plans with the club’s hierarchy and they have swung into action in attempts to secure the deal.
A January move is unlikely as Fred would be Champions League cup-tied, but Guardiola wants to ensure no other suitors signs Fred.
